"I felt nervous and just tried to control my emotions. I felt I was playing well, though, and my concentration was good," he told the European Tour official website.

Earlier, Harrington, who was picked by Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie ahead of Paul Casey and Justin Rose, returned to his best form with an eight-under finish to claim joint eighth, having struggled to make the cut.

"I'm obviously happy," said the Dubliner.

"The week before a big event is all about seeing where your game is at and what needs working on.